Xian City Walls

Best by bike or strolled in sections, the Xi'an city walls are one of the few ancient fortifications of its kind still in existence in modern China. At 14 km (8 miles) long and an average of 12 meters (40 feet) high, 12 meters wide at the top, these walls are a wonder to behold. Built periodically between the ramparts are watchtowers bearing Ming Dynasty architecture that are interspersed between the four gates to the city: Yongning in the south, Anyuan in the north, Changle in the east, and Anding in the west. The south part of the wall has seen better reconstruction and preservation and therefore is the more attractive section to spend your time and catch the sunsets. Bike rentals are cheap and there is information posted along the route; put aside a few hours and enjoy the rare pleasure of seeing the world from atop the Xi'an city walls.